Newcastle United Are Making a Strong Effort to Secure the Signatures of Two Liverpool Stars Following Their Triumph in the Carabao Cup

Newcastle United are preparing an ambitious double raid on Premier League rivals Liverpool, targeting goalkeeper Caoimhín Kelleher and left-back Andy Robertson in moves that could redefine both clubs’ defensive setups for the 2025/26 season. The Magpies’ bold transfer strategy comes fresh off their Carabao Cup triumph, with manager Eddie Howe determined to capitalize on the club’s upward trajectory by plucking proven top-flight talent from one of England’s elite sides.

The proposed deals would address two critical positions for Newcastle as they prepare for another European campaign. Kelleher, Liverpool’s highly-rated backup goalkeeper, has emerged as the primary target to solve Newcastle’s long-term goalkeeping conundrum. The 26-year-old Irish international has impressed during his limited opportunities at Anfield, keeping 10 clean sheets in 20 appearances this season while demonstrating the composure and shot-stopping ability that have made him one of the most sought-after number twos in world football.

Robertson represents a more surprising but equally strategic target. Though the 31-year-old Scotland captain has been a cornerstone of Liverpool’s success under Jürgen Klopp, his advancing age and slight dip in form this season have prompted Newcastle to test the waters. The veteran defender’s experience and leadership qualities would provide invaluable mentorship for Newcastle’s young squad while immediately upgrading their left-back options.

Financial considerations make both players attainable targets. Kelleher enters the final year of his Liverpool contract with no extension currently on the table, potentially available for around £20 million. Robertson’s deal runs through 2026, but with Liverpool reportedly eyeing younger alternatives like Fulham’s Antonee Robinson, a £15 million fee could persuade the Reds to part ways with their legendary full-back a year early.

The potential transfers carry significant ramifications for Liverpool’s squad planning under new manager Arne Slot. Losing Kelleher would leave a void behind first-choice Alisson Becker, forcing the club to identify a new backup goalkeeper during what promises to be a competitive summer market. Robertson’s departure would mark the end of an era for Liverpool’s defense, requiring either an immediate replacement or increased reliance on Kostas Tsimikas while transitioning to a younger long-term solution.

For Newcastle, these moves would represent a statement of intent following their Carabao Cup success. Securing two players with extensive Premier League and Champions League experience would provide the squad depth required to compete on multiple fronts while maintaining their push for regular top-six finishes. Kelleher in particular fits the profile of a goalkeeper who could eventually claim the number one shirt at St James’ Park.

The proposed deals face several obstacles, however. Chelsea have also registered interest in Kelleher, potentially sparking a bidding war that could inflate his price beyond Newcastle’s preferred valuation. Liverpool’s willingness to strengthen a direct rival remains questionable, especially given the sensitive nature of selling key squad members to a club that has emerged as genuine competition for European places.

Robertson’s situation presents different complications. Though no longer an automatic starter for Liverpool, his leadership in the dressing room and big-game experience still hold considerable value. The emotional aspect of transferring a club icon could prove as significant as the financial considerations, particularly if Robertson expresses a desire to remain at Anfield in a reduced role.

From a tactical perspective, both players would slot seamlessly into Howe’s system. Kelleher’s distribution and command of his penalty area align perfectly with Newcastle’s preference for playing out from the back, while Robertson’s overlapping runs and crossing ability would add a new dimension to their left flank. Their Premier League experience eliminates the adaptation period typically required of overseas signings.

The transfers would also continue Newcastle’s recent strategy of targeting players from traditional “Big Six” clubs, following successful acquisitions like Joe Willock from Arsenal and Dan Burn from Brighton. This approach has helped accelerate their rise up the table by blending emerging talent with proven top-flight performers.

Fan reactions have been predictably polarized. Newcastle supporters have taken to social media to celebrate the prospect of weakening a rival while strengthening their own squad, with many highlighting Kelleher’s potential as a future star. Liverpool fans have expressed mixed emotions, acknowledging the business sense behind potential sales but lamenting the loss of two popular figures.

As negotiations reportedly progress behind the scenes, the coming weeks will reveal whether Newcastle can pull off this ambitious double swoop. Success would mark another milestone in their transformation under Saudi ownership, while failure could force a reassessment of alternative targets.

One thing remains certain: in the hyper-competitive world of Premier League transfers, Newcastle’s pursuit of Kelleher and Robertson demonstrates their determination to establish themselves among England’s elite. Whether through these specific deals or alternative options, the Magpies appear committed to building a squad capable of sustaining their newfound success.

The potential transfers also highlight the evolving power dynamics in English football. Where once Liverpool could comfortably fend off interest from clubs like Newcastle, the Magpies’ financial muscle and sporting project now make them genuine threats in the transfer market. This shift could redefine how traditional powers approach squad planning when dealing with the nouveau riche of the Premier League.

As the summer window approaches, all eyes will be on St James’ Park and Anfield to see whether this audacious double deal comes to fruition. The outcome could have lasting implications for both clubs’ ambitions in what promises to be another fiercely contested Premier League season.